GERD Awareness Week, November 22-28

GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease) is no fun. Yet, it’s one of those common ailments in life that we must try to treat for better health.

Chronic heartburn and acid regurgitation (or reflux) are two of the most well-known symptoms of GERD, but there are several other lesser-known symptoms as well. In addition, some people with GERD don’t have symptoms and may not realize they have the condition unless complications, such as Barrett’s esophagus, result.

According to the International Foundation for Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders, less common symptoms of GERD include: belching, difficulty or pain when swallowing, waterbrash (sudden excess of saliva), dysphagia (the sensation of food sticking in the esophagus), chronic sore throat, laryngitis, inflammation of the gums, erosion of the enamel of the teeth, chronic irritation in the throat, hoarseness in the morning, a sour taste and bad breath. Coughing may also be a symptom of GERD.

Chest pain is a tricky symptom of GERD. I’ve dealt with GERD myself for years, and I often still can’t tell whether the pain I sometimes have in my chest is due to GERD or if my heart is attacking me! That concern has led me to having several cardiac tests done, which were OK. If you’re unsure whether your chest pain is caused by GERD, it’s always best to err on the side of caution and make sure your heart is doing fine.

One of the best treatments for GERD is simply watching your diet, avoiding caffeine, chocolate, alcohol, coffee, citric juices and spicy foods. If you have GERD, you may notice that other foods, like onions, may cause heartburn. Once you know your triggers, it’s easier to avoid them. My gastroenterologist once said to me that some people with GERD can take medication (like Nexium) and eat pretty much what they want without issues. Well, that’s not the case with me and many others. Despite the medication I take, I still must watch what I eat. However, I still have decaf coffee and chocolate at times! In any case, smaller meals are recommended.

Other factors that may aggravate GERD include being overweight and eating close to bedtime. Unfortunately, there’s no cure for GERD. It’s a chronic condition usually managed with medication and lifestyle modification. Surgery may be an option for some, but it’s not generally recommended for most people with GERD. Treatment for GERD aims to improve symptoms for comfort and to heal any damage caused by acid reflux, preventing serious complications.

If you find yourself regularly taking over-the-counter medications for heartburn, it’s time to consult your doctor. Prescription medication may be needed to promote healing to damaged tissue. Learn more about GERD at AboutGERD.org.

(Image via WikiMedia Commons)